Mollusks

Mollusks are a diverse group of invertebrate animals that include creatures like snails, clams, squids, and octopuses. They are found in a wide range of habitats, from the deep sea to freshwater lakes and terrestrial environments.

Mollusk Characteristics

Mollusks share several key characteristics:

• Soft body: Mollusks have a soft, unsegmented body that is often protected by a hard shell.
• Foot: Most mollusks have a muscular foot that they use for movement.
• Mantle: The mantle is a fold of tissue that covers the mollusk's body and often secretes the shell.
• Radula: Many mollusks have a radula, a tongue-like organ covered with tiny teeth that they use for feeding.
• Gills: Mollusks that live in water use gills for respiration.

Mollusk Diversity

Mollusks are incredibly diverse, with over 85,000 known species. They are classified into seven classes, including Gastropoda (snails and slugs), Bivalvia (clams, oysters, and mussels), and Cephalopoda (squids, octopuses, and nautiluses).

Ecological Importance

Mollusks play important roles in ecosystems. They serve as food for many animals, help to recycle nutrients, and some species are used by humans as a food source or for their shells.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying mollusks:

1. What are the main characteristics of mollusks?
2. List some examples of mollusks and their habitats.
3. Explain the ecological importance of mollusks.
4. How are mollusks classified?

[Mollusks] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Mollusks, Arthropods and EchinodermsScience • Sixth Grade
• Grouping of AnimalsScience • Third Grade
• Invertebrates - Animals without BackbonesScience • Fourth Grade
• Animal Diversity and AdaptationsScience • Fifth Grade